Drama in the Lagos Assembly: Obasa Fights Back After Ouster, Tensions Escalate

By Achimi Muktar

The Lagos State House of Assembly was a fortress on Monday morning as heightened security enveloped the complex ahead of a potentially volatile plenary session. The embattled former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, remains at the center of the storm, insisting that he is still the Speaker despite his recent impeachment.

Obasa was ousted on January 13, 2025, in a dramatic vote of no confidence by his colleagues, who accused him of misconduct and financial misappropriation. The Deputy Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, has since taken the reins as the new Speaker, presiding over two plenary sessions in Obasa’s absence.

Yet, Obasa refuses to back down. Over the weekend, he boldly declared his continued claim to the speakership, alleging procedural flaws in his removal.

"I Am Still the Speaker" – Obasa Declares

Speaking at a gathering of supporters in Lagos on Saturday, Obasa maintained that his impeachment was invalid.

“My status in the house? I believe strongly I am still the Speaker until the right thing has been done. If you want to remove me, remove me the proper way, and I will not contest it,” he said.

Obasa vehemently denied allegations of corruption, including accusations of inflated contracts and misuse of public funds.

“Is it possible to construct an ordinary gate with N16 billion? It is not the wall of Jericho. How can they say we bought one Hilux bus for N1 billion each? These claims are baseless,” Obasa retorted.

Despite his defiance, insiders hint that Obasa may not attend Monday’s plenary to avoid escalating tensions.

Assembly Locks Down Amid Fears of Unrest

In anticipation of a potential showdown, the Assembly issued a directive requiring all staff and legislative aides to present valid identification cards for access to the premises.

“The directive is to maintain decorum and ensure only authorized personnel are allowed entry,” read a notice from the acting Clerk’s office.

Outside the chambers, the Lagos State Police Command pledged to ensure peace. Commissioner of Police Ishola Olawale assured that there would be no breakdown of law and order.

“People will move about their businesses freely, but anyone congregating to foment trouble will be decisively dealt with,” Olawale said, adding that the police had no jurisdiction within the Assembly.

Obasa’s Allegations Against Police Dismissed

Obasa had accused the police of invading his residence and the Assembly complex with over 200 officers during his impeachment. However, the CP dismissed these claims as unfounded.

“The man lives in an estate with gatekeepers. How do you breach such security with 200 policemen? It’s simply not possible,” Olawale countered.

Political Maneuvering Behind the Scenes

As tensions simmer, efforts to broker a truce are reportedly underway. Obasa and the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) are slated to meet President Bola Tinubu later this week to explore a political resolution to the crisis.

Sources close to the negotiations suggest that the impeachment is unlikely to be challenged in court, with parties focusing on a reconciliatory approach.

“Absolute Power Corrupts” – Critics Weigh In

Former Deputy Majority Leader Olumuyiwa Jimoh weighed in on the controversy, describing Obasa’s removal as a lesson in humility.

“Power is fleeting. As a Speaker, your fate lies in the hands of your colleagues. His actions have estranged him from the very people who once supported him,” Jimoh said during an interview.

What Lies Ahead?

As Obasa’s supporters rally behind him and his critics cheer his removal, the political drama unfolding in the Lagos Assembly highlights the fragility of leadership and the complex dynamics of power.

Will Obasa’s defiance spark a broader confrontation, or will a political solution restore order? For now, all eyes remain on the Assembly as Lagos waits to see how this saga unfolds.